Hyperextension knee injuries can be trcky. Damage can include injury to the patella-femoral joint, sprain of the cruciate ligaments, or a bone bruise of either the tibia or femur. Essentially it can be just about anything.
From your history, I get a sense that this is an injury to the patella-femoral joint, either the cartilage on the back of the kneecap, or perhaps to the patella tendon.
Since the symptoms seem to get better with rest, I recommend resting for several weeks, not just eliminating running, but basketball as well. If the symptoms abate, then I would begin a course of quadriceps strengthening as you start a gradual return to sport. If the piain persists, returns, or worsens, you should see a physician for a thorough evaluation.
Thank you so much Dr. Your answers have really enlightened me. I just want to add that I made a typographical error in my earlier post, I meant to say anterior-"medial" not anterior-"middle" (where I hear pops and feel sensations of giving way). Does this mean anything to you? Furthermore, is there a chance that i sustained a meniscus or ligament tear?
Thank you so much again.
Anterior medial would indeed make me more suspicious of either a meniscus tear or an injury to the fat pad, but would not necessarily eliminate the others.
thank you Dr., my final question is can I get on an excercise bike or swim while waiting for my symptoms to disappear? or should I totally rest my knee? If so, how long till I can ride an exercise bike.? I am sorry I am quite anxious since I love to be active.
Thank you again so much.
God Bless.
Exercise bike, eliptical, swimming (flutter kick, not frog kick) or any other non-impact activity should be ok as long as it doesn't cause symptoms. If it reproduces your symptoms, then you have to eliminate it.
Thank you so much Dr., Have a Merry Christmas.